Littlehampton Beach

Littlehampton Beach stretches along the mouth of the River Arun on the West Sussex coast, a sandy shore that opens into wider, more spacious stretches as you move away from the town centre toward Climping. The harbour entrance creates interesting water movement and the views east along the coast take in the South Downs behind Worthing. At low tide the beach is wide with good firm sand, and the East Beach section beyond the harbour has a less developed, more natural character. The award-winning East Beach Cafe — a striking piece of coastal architecture — sits near the harbour mouth.

Seasonal restrictions apply to parts of the beach closer to the central seafront. The East Beach section toward Climping tends to have better dog access outside peak season, and the wider, sandier stretches here make this the better destination for this dog friendly beach. The firm sand at low tide provides excellent running terrain, and the harbour mouth creates interesting scent where river water meets the sea — mud, salt, seaweed and freshwater notes mixing at the confluence. The flat terrain suits dogs of all fitness levels, and the long, straight beach allows steady mileage without interruption. Parking is conveniently available at East Beach. A practical coastal walk that improves considerably as you move away from the town centre.